Theatre Review - GASLIGHT - THE PEOPLE'S THEATRE, NEWCASTLE

 

Bella (Catherine Ellis)
photo credit Tim Swinton

The play that gave its name to the term ‘gaslighting’ was never going to be easy watching. Husband Jack Manningham is lamenting his failed efforts to help as his wife slowly descends into madness; but is he really such a good husband – and just why is Bella, his wife, so on edge? As Inspector Rough enters the scene, one must question if Bella really is losing her mind, or if someone is driving her from it. A disturbing tale that will have you questioning each move, it’s a play as pertinent today as it when it was first written in 1938.

 

Jack (Sam Hinton) Bella (Catherine Ellis)
photo cedit Tim Swinton

Director Gordon Russell should be complimented many times over on bringing forth a show which would not seem out of place in the West-End. The atmosphere in the theatre was (ironically) electric! From the perfectly-tailored Victorian costumes (by Sarah Pearson) that fit both the actors and characters well, to the lighting (designed by Tim Swinton), keeping those all important lamps at the correct levels for a sinister feel, to the sound (designed by Tim Swinton), sending chills down the spine with subtle but eerie music and whispers, bringing home Bella’s feeling of unease. The set (designed by Tim Swinton) is green; normally a calming colour, here it creates a sinister, oppressive, atmosphere - reflecting Bella’s feelings in a place that should feel calm and safe. I would advise you to get seats in the centre block, if possible, as otherwise, due to the way the sofa is positioned, there were occasionally times you saw more of the characters’ backs than the action at hand.

Rough (Stuart Douglas) photo credit Tim Swinton

As we took our seats it was announced the two of the cast, Valerie Russell and Mark Buckley, would not be able to perform. Although it is sad to miss the actors who, I’m sure, put a lot of work into what is a fantastic show, it is a testament to the high standards at the Peoples Theatre that, had no one told me of the change, I would never have known. Maggie Childs stepped in as caring, and occasionally funny, maid Elizabeth. Sam Hinton played Mr Jack Manningham, slipping quickly from happy caring husband to tyrant on the turn of a heel. Stuart Douglass played Inspector Rough, bringing moments of much needed humour to punctuate the tension. His characterisation was flawless and perfectly understated. As for Catherine Ellis, who played the haunted Mrs Bella Manningham, I can only applaud her skill in executing such a difficult role - at times so anxious and fraught she becomes nearly manic with laughter; award-winning professional actors could do no more.

Please see this show - it is an intensely good piece of theatre that will have you on the edge of your seat.

Gaslight is running at the People Theatre 28^th March- 2^nd April.